Advance Land and Timber Blog

Timberland continues to attract smart investors who are looking for long-term value. Managed pine plantations, especially those with loblolly pine, remain a favorite. These trees grow quickly and can be harvested in cycles, providing both ongoing income and long-term appreciation.

Many buyers are looking for land that pays for itself over time. Timberland with good access to mills and a healthy stand of merchantable timber offers just that. Counties like Kershaw, Lexington, Bamberg, and Newberry are especially popular right now due to their strong forestry infrastructure and reliable timber markets.

More Buyers Want Land for Recreation and Self Sufficiency

People are rethinking how and where they want to live. There is a growing interest in rural land that offers privacy, recreation, and the option to build later. Buyers from Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and beyond are actively seeking tracts where they can hunt, garden, ride ATVs, or just relax in nature.

Some want land for weekend getaways, while others are planning full time homesteads. They are looking for features like road frontage, food plots, creeks, and space to build a small home or cabin. Counties like Fairfield, Chesterfield, and Orangeburg are seeing increased demand thanks to affordable prices and larger acreage options.

Interest Rates Have Stabilized but Cash Buyers Still Lead

Following the rate hikes of 2023 and 2024, the pace of increases has started to level off in 2025. However, cash buyers continue to lead the land market. They can move faster and often have fewer financing hurdles, which gives them an edge when a good property becomes available.

That does not mean financing is off the table. Several lenders specialize in rural land loans, particularly for properties with income-generating potential, such as timber or hunting leases. These loans may require additional paperwork and higher down payments, but they remain available and competitive.

Land Near Cities Is in High Demand

Counties surrounding South Carolina’s metro areas are heating up quickly. Tracts located near Columbia, Greenville, and Charleston are drawing attention from both families and investors. They want to be close to schools, hospitals, and services, but still enjoy the freedom of rural living.

Counties like Richland, Lexington, Dorchester, and Spartanburg are seeing steady interest in tracts ranging from 10 to 50 acres. Many buyers are planning to build homes now or later, and some are thinking about subdividing or holding for resale in the future.

Water Features Add Major Value

Tracts that include water are more attractive than ever in 2025. Whether it is a small creek, pond, or a property that borders a lake or river, water adds beauty, functionality, and long term value.

Buyers are interested in fishing, wildlife, irrigation, or simply enjoying the view. If a tract has usable water access and solid recreational features, it often sells faster and for a premium price. At Advance Land and Timber, we have seen high demand for land with water throughout the state.

Buyers Want Land That Serves Multiple Purposes

Another trend in 2025 is demand for land that offers more than one use. These dual purpose properties are especially popular. For example, a tract with timber can generate income, and at the same time offer great hunting and recreation. Some buyers want to build a weekend retreat, while also leasing hunting rights to generate cash flow.

Land with a mix of open space, woods, trails, and access to utilities checks a lot of boxes. These properties attract families, investors, and landowners who want flexibility.

What Buyers and Sellers Should Know Right Now

If you are looking to buy land in South Carolina, now is a good time to act. Prices are still favorable in many rural areas, but competition is increasing. Properties with timber, road access, water, and recreational features tend to sell quickly.

If you are thinking of selling, market conditions are in your favor. There are more buyers than listings in many parts of the state. That means you have the potential to sell for a fair price and in a reasonable timeframe.

Work with a Trusted Partner in 2025

The South Carolina land market in 2025 is active, healthy, and full of opportunity. Whether you are looking to buy, sell, or invest, the team at Advance Land and Timber is here to help. With decades of experience and a focus on timber, hunting, and investment land, we know what it takes to close successful deals.

Let us help you make the most of your land transaction this year. Contact Advance Land and Timber today to explore listings or get a market evaluation on your property.